The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Park Lyndon County Park
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Family friendly hiking trails in Park Lyndon County Park traverse a landscape shaped by significant glacial activity, featuring steep hillsides, kettle lakes, and kame hills. This region in Michigan's hilly northwestern corner of Washtenaw County encompasses over 200 acres of diverse habitats, including fens, marshes, forests, and prairies. Hikers can explore a rich biodiversity across these varied ecosystems, making it an ideal destination for nature observation. The park's terrain offers a mix of gentle paths and more challenging ascents suitable for different family abilities.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Park Lyndon County Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Big Kame loop from Lyndon Township, an easy 4.7 miles (7.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 59 minutes to complete, winding through the park's notable kame hills.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is DTE Green Lake Loop, a moderate 5.8 miles (9.4 km) path. This route offers varied terrain through forests and open areas, showcasing the park's diverse ecosystems.
- Local hikers also love the Green Lake loop from Lyndon Township, a 5.2 miles (8.3 km) trail leading through hilly terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 7 minutes.
- Hiking in Park Lyndon County Park is defined by glacial topography, diverse ecosystems, and extensive forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family hikes to more moderate excursions.
- The routes in Park Lyndon County Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Park Lyndon County Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
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9.40km
02:23
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Hike the moderate 5.8-mile DTE Green Lake Loop in Waterloo State Recreation Area, featuring scenic views and Green Lake.
9.34km
02:26
60m
60m
Hike the 5.8-mile Border-To-Border Trail: Chelsea-Stockbridge Corridor, a moderate route through woodlands and wetlands in Waterloo Recreati
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hikers
14.2km
03:41
90m
90m
Hike the moderate 8.8-mile Winn Loop in Waterloo Recreation Area, featuring rolling terrain, forest, and lakeside views of Winnewana Impound
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7.64km
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Embark on an easy hike along the Potawatomi and Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, a pleasant 2.1 miles (3.4 km) route that takes about 52 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 65 feet (20 metres) as you wander through dense woodlands and past the serene Portage River. This trail offers a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for a quick outdoor outing.
When planning your visit, remember that parking is generally available at designated trailheads within the Pinckney State Recreation Area. The trails are typically well-marked, making navigation straightforward. While this specific route is short, be aware that other sections of the broader Potawatomi Trail can become muddy after rain, so consider waterproof footwear for comfort.
This area's landscape was shaped by ancient glaciers, resulting in its characteristic rolling hills and rich woodlands. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife; deer, foxes, and various bird species are often seen here. The trail provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with the natural environment and observe the region's diverse ecosystem.
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Tips from the Community
A small, spring-fed lake surrounded by hardwood forest, located right along the Waterloo–Pinckney Trail. The shoreline hosts a rustic campground with both tent sites and a reservable yurt, making it a convenient overnight option for backpackers. Its quiet setting and easy lake access make it a popular spot for fishing, paddling, or simply enjoying a sunset before settling in for the night.
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A 11,000-acre park known for its rolling forests, quiet inland lakes, and one of Michigan’s best networks of hiking and biking trails. The eastern half of the 34-mile Waterloo–Pinckney Trail runs through here, linking kettle lakes, ridges, and rustic campgrounds like Blind Lake. With its mix of loop trails, backpacking routes, and lake access, Pinckney is a hub for outdoor adventure and the perfect landscape to end a thru-hike.
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Set about halfway along the 17-mile Potawatomi Trail loop in Pinckney Recreation Area, Blind Lake is a hike-in only campground with 10 rustic sites. Each site has a fire ring, with vault toilets and a hand pump for water nearby. Campers must check in at the park office on the day of arrival, and stays are limited to one night. Reservations are available online, but same-day arrivals are first-come, first-served.
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Waterloo Recreation Area is one of the largest state parks in Michigan, covering over 20,000 acres. Visitors can enjoy lakes and wetlands, woods, and rolling hills year-round. In the winter, there are cross-country ski trails.
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Green Lake spans 309 acres and reaches depths of up to 73 feet. The fish that call this lake home are species like largemouth bass and bluegill. Since the early 19th century, Green Lake has been cherished by locals, visitors, hikers, bikers, and fishermen.
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This 500-acre lake is a highly popular fishing spot, with several boat launch areas that also offer nice views of the water. There are miles of trails running along the water, providing you with an up-close water experience.
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Green Lake is a 90.5-acre lake within the Waterloo State Recreation Area. The lake has a trail that follows its western bank and can be a good area to spot birds or other wildlife.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails can we explore in Park Lyndon County Park?
Park Lyndon County Park offers a wonderful selection of trails suitable for families. Our guide features 19 routes, with 5 specifically rated as easy, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The park itself has two miles of marked nature trails that wind through its unique glacial terrain.
Are there easy trails suitable for families with young children or beginners?
Absolutely! There are several easy routes perfect for families. For a pleasant and manageable walk, consider the Big Kame loop from Lyndon Township, which is rated as easy and allows you to experience the park's unique glacial features. The park's diverse landscapes, including prairies and forests, make for an engaging experience for all ages.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly trails?
While the provided information doesn't explicitly state dog rules for Park Lyndon County Park, many county parks in Michigan are dog-friendly on leash. It's always best to check the official Park Lyndon County Park website or local signage upon arrival for the most current regulations regarding pets to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
Are there circular routes available for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Park Lyndon County Park are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. For example, the Green Lake loop from Lyndon Township is a great circular option, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and return to your starting point easily.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can we expect to see?
Park Lyndon County Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and significant glacial topography. Families can expect to see steep, glacially sculpted hillsides, kettle lakes, and kame hills. The park boasts fens, marshes, bogs, ponds, forests, and prairies, supporting over 500 species of plants. This rich biodiversity makes it an excellent spot for birdwatching and spotting various plant and animal species, especially in the Embury Swamp Natural Area.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, Park Lyndon County Park is well-equipped with amenities for visitors, including ample parking. The park is divided by North Territorial Road, with both North and South sections offering dedicated parking areas, making access to the trails convenient for families.
Are any of the trails stroller-friendly?
Given the park's description of 'steep, glacially sculpted hillsides' and 'hilly terrain,' many of the nature trails might not be ideal for conventional strollers. However, some sections or wider paths might be more accessible. For the most comfortable experience with young children, a sturdy off-road stroller or a child carrier is often recommended on natural surface trails.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
The park itself is a landmark of glacial geology. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs that explain the formation of kettle lakes and kame hills, which are unique depressions and mounds left by ancient glaciers. The Embury Swamp Natural Area is also a significant ecological gem, recognized as one of the best fen lands in the Great Lakes area, offering a chance to observe rare plant species.
When is the best time to visit Park Lyndon County Park with family?
Park Lyndon County Park operates from dawn to dusk, offering ample time for outdoor activities. Spring and fall are often ideal for hiking, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant autumn colors. Summer is also great, but be prepared for warmer weather and potential insects. Winter hiking can be beautiful, but trails may be snowy or icy.
What amenities are available for families at the park?
Park Lyndon County Park provides several amenities to enhance your family's visit. These include parking, picnic shelters with grills, picnic tables, and vault toilets. These facilities are available in both the North and South sections of the park, making it easy to plan a picnic or take a break during your hike.
Are there options for longer family hikes for older children or more experienced families?
For families seeking a longer adventure, Park Lyndon County Park's two miles of marked nature trails connect to the state's Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. This connection offers an expansive combined hiking experience of almost 50 miles. Routes like the DTE Green Lake Loop or the Border-To-Border Trail: Chelsea-Stockbridge Corridor provide more extensive options, though they are rated moderate.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Park Lyndon County Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 34 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's diverse landscapes, the unique glacial features, and the well-maintained trails that offer a rewarding experience for nature lovers and hikers alike. The rich biodiversity and opportunities for birdwatching are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any less-known or 'hidden gem' spots for families to discover?
While the entire park is a gem, the Embury Swamp Natural Area within Park Lyndon is particularly special. It's recognized as one of the best fen lands in the Great Lakes area and supports an incredible diversity of plant life. Exploring this specific wetland system can feel like discovering a hidden ecological treasure, offering a unique educational experience for families.
Most popular routes in Park Lyndon County Park
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